Becoming a Digital Nomad GVF Article Header

Become a Digital Nomad

Are you tired of living life on repeat? Want to see the world while you work? Ditch the office and join the digital nomad tribe!

We’re the folks who work remotely from breathtaking locations, like a mountain top or a beachside bar. Say goodbye to cubicles and hello to sunsets.

As a fellow digital nomad and a GoVisaFree community member, I’m thrilled to share with you the ultimate guide to becoming a digital nomad.

Discover the best career options and practical tips to live your dream life of adventure and minimalism. Join us, and let’s explore the world while we work!

Let’s go!

The world is their oyster, and digital nomads are here to explore! With the power of the internet and mobile devices, they can work from almost anywhere. Armed with just their trusty laptop, tablet, or smartphone, digital nomads are always ready to take on the day, no matter where they are or what time it is. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, the world is your office when you’re a digital nomad.

Digital Nomadism: Pros and Cons

While it sounds like a dream come true, this lifestyle isn’t without its challenges. To help you make an informed decision, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of digital nomadism. From the freedom to travel the world to the difficulties of maintaining a work-life balance, we’ll explore everything you need to know before taking the plunge into the world of digital nomadism. So buckle up and get ready to discover the good, the bad, and the ugly of this exciting lifestyle.

Pros of Being a Digital Nomad

Freedom

All digital nomads opt for this way of life due to their desire for independence. You can become liberated in both life and work by choosing your own path as a digital nomad. Modern individuals long for independence and working remotely as a digital nomad provides that.

Independence

Nomads only rely on themselves and are their only source of support. This holds true for both job and lifestyle. Many nomads start automated or passive enterprises or work as independent contractors. Business owners frequently automate their tasks to free up as much time as possible to travel and see other cultures.

Low Cost of Living

Being a digital nomad gives you the freedom to live anywhere you want and get the most for your money. Rent or mortgage expenses do not have to take up half of your take-home cash. Additionally, you have the option of escaping the frenetic pace of the city and searching for short- or medium-term rentals in areas with higher standards of living.

Work-Life Balance

Living a nomadic lifestyle generally results in a better work-life balance because you don't have to worry about commuting or waste money on pricey clothes or rent. You are completely in charge of how you wish to live. Life can seem more stimulating and meaningful.

No Commuting

How long have you wasted at least two hours of your day traveling to and from work? That is undoubtedly one of the primary causes of daily exhaustion. Without a doubt, not having to commute means getting more sleep, leading a more laid-back lifestyle, and having a lot more leisure each day.

Cons of Being a Digital Nomad

Isolation

Working alone can feel quite lonely at times, despite the fact that it's fantastic to not have to deal with coworkers or a boss on a regular basis. You do need to be deliberate about networking with and forming connections with other digital nomads and professionals in your network.

Time Management

Flexibility is fantastic, but in order to avoid missing anything, you need to be extremely prepared and keep your itinerary up to date. It can occasionally be stressful, and you have to take into account things like travel time and time zone differences. 

Financial Instability

Anyone who works as a freelancer or launches their own business understands that some months you feel like a millionaire and can splurge, while other months you may not make it to the end of the month.

Risk of Burnout

Both freelancers and digital nomads frequently experience emotional fatigue. The longer you work without getting enough rest, the more likely you are to burn out. It is critical to note that, unlike working-from-home freelancers, you will experience more stress as a result of moving, adjusting to new living conditions, and cultural differences.

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What Jobs Can You Do as a Digital Nomad?

To become a digital nomad, you need to be able to do your work remotely. Thus digital marketing, graphics, design, media, and telecommunications are the most suitable professions to work in.

You can try to get more information by looking at online pieces of training and summits first. It is also possible to get training on digital nomadism.

Best Digital Nomad Jobs

  • Digital marketing specialist
  • Social media expert
  • Designer
  • Copywriter or blogger
  • Online-offline trainer
  • Consultant
  • Strategist
  • Project manager
  • Translator
  • Accountant
  • Editor
  • Online services
  • E-commerce
  • Digital advertising industry

How To Become a Digital Nomad

You may believe that the ideal way to become a digital nomad is to go the entrepreneurial route and start your own internet business. This will surely provide you with the most freedom, but it is quite difficult to succeed – especially if you lack experience. 

Here are some basic steps to follow in your search for how to be a digital nomad!

#1

Choose Your Job

Begin by researching digital nomad occupations that interest you. Many digital nomads work as web developers or in other computer-related fields. Majors that digital nomads frequently pursue include:

  • Computer science
  • Graphic design
  • IT 
  • Content writing

The digital nomad lifestyle allows for a choice of work patterns, such as full-time employment, freelancing, and running a small business.

You can't always work remotely if you want to be a digital nomad. If you work in management, financial services, or any other field that requires in-person contact with clients or coworkers, you must have a fixed place of employment.

#2

Get the Necessary Training

For a career as a digital nomad, you must receive the appropriate training. Most digital nomads have a bachelor's degree or higher. Popular choices include degrees in computer science and related fields.

Many universities offer online degree programs that you can complete at your convenience. If you set reasonable limits for maintaining a work/life balance, you can even travel while pursuing your online degree.

Additionally, many coding boot camps may now be finished online in a three to six-month time frame.

#3

Make Job Applications

By understanding where to seek, you may make the process of applying for a remote job simpler. Popular remote employment websites include the following:

  • We Work Remotely
  • Remote.co
  • Remotive
  • FlexJobs
  • LinkedIn 

Make a list of pertinent questions in the form of bullet points while applying for a job.

  • Which time zone does the employer operate in?
  • Will you ever be required to work or participate in activities in person?
  • What software platforms are they using?

#4

Choose Your Location

Your choice of location is important, too. You can’t work if you’re on a tourist visa. For remote employees, some nations have recently created digital nomad visas, including Malta, Croatia, Barbados, and Bermuda.

It is also critical to have digital nomad communities to connect with. If you go to a city with an established nomad community, you'll feel more supported.

Consider technical issues as well, such as time zone differences and WiFi accessibility. To prevent emergencies, you could want to buy tools like a WiFi booster. Possibly, you'll also require a local cell phone.

#5

Get Ready for Your Departure

You must prepare before embarking on your new life as a digital nomad. You can deal with items you can't bring with you:

  • Obtaining a storage unit
  • Donating items you no longer require
  • Leaving your possessions or vehicle with family or friends

The next step is to find a place to reside. On a tight budget, homestays, hostels, and renting with roommates work well. You can always alter your residence afterward.

Countries With Digital Nomad Visas

Luckily, there are many countries that offer digital nomad visas which help our relocation process easier. Although Europe is the first choice for nomads from the US, the Caribbean island countries also offer very appealing programs. After all, who doesn’t want to work from the beach?

Digital Nomad Visa Countries 

Anguilla

Costa Rica

Estonia

Malta

Antigua and Barbuda

Croatia

Georgia

Mauritius

Australia

Curaçao

Germany

Norway

Barbados

Czech Republic

Iceland

Portugal

Bermuda

Dominica

Italy

Spain

Cayman Islands

Dubai

Mexico

Thailand

Banking for Digital Nomads

Traveling and managing your money might provide unique obstacles. Your card can be canceled or you might find it difficult to receive money from abroad.

Luckily, there are many digital banking options for digital nomads. Wise and N26 are two of the most popular ones. As they offer transparent and quick money transfer options, they’re today preferred by many digital nomads.

Revolut is also a good option if you’re going to be based in the UK.

Useful Resources and Books for Digital Nomads

Regardless of your background or area of skill, becoming a successful digital nomad is a difficult task. It takes a long time to build a dependable client base. To secure well-paying clients, you must receive numerous great reviews and establish a sizable portfolio! Even more difficult is learning how to approach clients, sell your services, and negotiate reasonable pricing.

The good news is that books can assist you in being a better digital nomad. 

Here are some of the best books that can enlighten your way:

  • The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferris outlines how to employ automation, outsource work, and generate cash with minimal time and effort
  • $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau gives 50 fascinating case studies of people running enterprises that brought in more than $50,000 with just a $100 or less investment
  • Vagabonding by Rolf Potts teaches how to finance your trips, adjust to new locations, and deal with frustrations
  • Crush It! by Gary Vaynerchuk teaches you how to consider your new way of life as a business and how to act like an entrepreneur in order to be successful
  • Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh helps you internalize happiness and strengthen your relationships with customers and clients
  • Remote by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson provides insights and opinions on remote working
  • The Laptop Millionaire by Mark Anastasi offers simple techniques for getting your online business up and running
  • Virtual Freedom by Chris Ducker offers simple techniques for getting your online business up and running
  • Travel While You Work by Mish Slade assists digital nomads in preparing for their new lifestyle and improving their travel habits
  • The Zero Hour Workweek by Jonathan Mead provides practical ideas for earning money doing what you enjoy

Digital Nomadism: The Bottom Line

There you have it…How to become a digital nomad…I hope this guide has helped you to have an understanding of the digital nomad lifestyle and answered your questions. Feel free to reach out if there is anything you want to ask. I and all members of the GoVisaFree community will be happy to help.

Now sit back, close your eyes, and first imagine where you want to go. With that motivation, then create a business plan for yourself and take the steps. Here, you are becoming a digital nomad!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much do digital nomads make?

Digital nomads may make anywhere from $1,000 to millions of dollars each month. Digital nomads work online, and there are now multi-million dollar fully remote enterprises, so there is no limit to what nomads can achieve.

2. Are digital nomads rich?

It’s difficult to determine whether a whole population of digital nomads is wealthy or poor. There are some digital nomads who are barely scraping by or running out of money, and there are others who are worth tens of millions.

3. Is digital nomading legit?

Yes, it is very much so. There are millions of digital nomads on the market. There’s always money to be made online, and traveling the world is easy as long as you have the funds. All you need to do is to learn how to become a nomad and you’re half way there.

4. Do digital nomads pay taxes?

It really depends. It mainly depends on where their tax residency is and how much money they’re making. Expatriation taxes are different in each country, so it’s worth checking the laws in the country you reside in.

5. Is it legal to be a digital nomad?

Yes, it’s completely legal to work while traveling across different countries. Many digital nomads travel on tourist visas, which may be a gray area at times. But most countries don’t care, as long as the visitor is not working locally.

6. What do digital nomads do for work?

According to digital nomad definition, digital nomads perform every sort of internet job imaginable. This ranges from running internet businesses to writing, marketing, software development, design, sales, HR, recruiting and training, data entry, and accounting.

Because so many businesses have moved to accommodate remote work, COVID-19 has opened up a world of possibilities for becoming a digital nomad.

7. What is digital nomad meaning and what does it mean to be a digital nomad?

People who work remotely and travel across different countries are known as digital nomads. They are people who can live and travel anywhere in the world because their job allows them to do so. Some nomads like to travel throughout the world while others prefer to stay in one or two specific locations. We can this is digital nomad meaning in the general sense.

8. What are the best online communities for digital nomads?

Look above in the article at the communities section to find extended information on the communities. Make sure to check out the GoVisaFree Forum, if you are a digital nomad.

9. How to receive mail packages as a digital nomad?

When you move around a lot, it was once difficult to receive mail, but that’s no longer the case. Signing up for a virtual mail service like “Earth Class Mail” gives you a physical address to send vital mail with the option of reading it online and having it forwarded anywhere you choose.

9. How can you efficiently work from the road?

There’s a difference between working in an office and working from anywhere and everywhere, no matter how good you are at your job. It doesn’t imply that your lifestyle has to change simply because your environment does. Here is a collection of suggestions for becoming more productive digital nomads.

  • First, make sure that you have the right equipment for the job. You’ll need a good laptop with plenty of processing power and a reliable internet connection. If you’re frequently on the move or living in a van, you’ll also need a mobile hotspot or a satellite phone.
  • Second, create a comfortable workspace. This could be as simple as setting up a laptop on your bed or as elaborate as building a home office. Make sure that you have everything you need at hand, including your favorite snacks and drinks.
  • Third, establish a routine and stick to it. This is especially important when you’re working in an unfamiliar environment. Try to work the same hours each day and take breaks at the same time every day.
  • Fourth, and foremost, make sure to sign up to the GoVisaFree Forum and actively join the conversation with fellow digital nomads.

10. Where should a digital nomad look for a job?

Remote working options are more popular now than they have ever been (and it’s only going to grow). If you have the necessary training, skills, and credentials, check out the following websites for remote employment possibilities.

  • Remote OK
  • We Work Remotely
  • Hubstaff Talent

11. Do I need a special visa to be a digital nomad?

In most cases, no. As long as you are not working locally, you should be fine to travel on a tourist visa. However, there are a few countries (like China and Russia) that do require a special visa for digital nomads. Make sure to research the visa requirements of the countries you plan to visit.

12. What are some of the challenges faced by digital nomads?

  • Constant change: One of the biggest challenges of being a digital nomad is constantly having to adjust to new environments and cultures. This is usually both exhausting and exhilarating.
  • Limited social life: It can be difficult to make friends when you’re always on the move.
  • Internet access: Not all places have reliable internet access, which can be frustrating when you need to get work done.
  • Financial instability: It can be hard to maintain a stable income as a digital nomad.

13. How do you make yourself stand out as a digital nomad?

  • Consider yourself a sheep: Unless you take the time to stand out from the rest of the flock, you will blend in with others. Here are some ideas for making yourself stand out and obtaining a job that allows you to live a digital nomad lifestyle.
  • Be professional: When you’re applying for jobs, make sure to present yourself as a professional. This means having a well-written resume and cover letter, being polite and respectful in all communications, and following through on commitments.
  • Specialize: When possible, specialize in a skill that is in high demand. For example, if you’re a web developer, specializing in front-end development or mobile app development.
  • Be creative: Use your creativity to stand out from the competition. This could mean developing a unique skill set, creating an eye-catching resume, or coming up with interesting ideas for working remotely.
  • Stay connected: Make sure to stay connected with other digital nomads through the right platforms. 

14. How much money do you need to be a digital nomad?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as the amount of money you need to be a digital nomad will vary depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. However, based on our research, we estimate that you would need at least $1,000 per month to cover your basic expenses while living a nomadic lifestyle, regardless of where you are.

15. How to be a digital nomad and what skills do I need to become a digital nomad?

There are many skills that will help make you a better digital nomad, some of the most important ones are:

1. Strong technical skills. You need to be able to work with computers and be comfortable using different software programs. This is valid even for those who are not tech nomads.

2. Excellent communication skills. As a digital nomad, you’ll be working with people from all over the world, so you need to be able to communicate effectively.

3. Strong organizational skills. You’ll need to be able to stay organized and keep track of multiple projects at once.

4. Self-motivated. As a digital nomad, you’ll be working on your own, so you need to be self-motivated.

16. Is it hard to be a digital nomad?

This is a question that is asked a lot, and there is no easy answer. For some people, it may be difficult to live a digital nomad lifestyle, while for others it may be easy. It really depends on your personal circumstances and what you are willing to do to make it work. There are definitely some challenges that you will face and whether you easily surpass them or not depends on your personality type, your skillset, and your support system around you.

17. What to study to become a digital nomad?

The best way to study to become a digital nomad is to take online courses and read books about the subject. There are many different ways to become a digital nomad, so it is important to find the right course or book that fits your needs. You can find many great resources on the internet, or you can ask other digital nomads for their recommendations in terms of training, courses, and degrees.

18. What are some nomad jobs?

There are many nomad jobs that you can do. As a digital nomad, you work from your computer from anywhere. There are many different types of jobs that you can do as a nomad. You can be a writer, a web developer, a graphic designer, or an editor. You can also work as a consultant or do freelance work. There are many options for nomads, and the internet has made it easier than ever to find work that you can do from anywhere in the world. Check out the list of jobs listed above in the article.

19. What is a nomad visa or a digital nomad visa?

A nomad visa, also known as a digital nomad visa, is a type of visa that allows you to stay in a country for an extended period of time so that you can work remotely. This type of visa is perfect for digital nomads who want to travel and work at the same time. If you’re interested in getting a digital nomad visa, first check if the country you are planning to visit offers one, then ask a professional how to get it. At GoVisaFree, we typically cover all available digital nomad visas and their details in detail.

20. Is being a digital nomad a good idea to do for a fresh graduate?

There are pros and cons to being a digital nomad, and it ultimately depends on the individual’s situation. For young graduates just starting out in their careers, there are several advantages to becoming a digital nomad. First, it allows for a lot of flexibility and freedom when it comes to where you live and work. You can travel to new and interesting places while continuing to work, which can be a great way to see the world. Additionally, as a digital nomad, you’ll likely have a lot of opportunities to meet new people and make connections with other professionals. This can help you build your network and find potential mentors or collaborators.

However, there are also some drawbacks to being a digital nomad. One is that it can be difficult to maintain a consistent work schedule when you’re constantly on the move. Additionally, if you’re not careful it’s easy to let your finances get out of control when you’re not tied down to a specific location. And finally, there is the risk of becoming isolated and feeling lonely.

21. How do digital nomads keep fit while traveling?

There are a few ways that digital nomads can stay fit while traveling. One way is to find a local gym or fitness center. There are also many online workout programs that can be accessed anywhere in the world. Additionally, there are many outdoor activities that can be enjoyed while traveling, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. By staying active, digital nomads can enjoy their travels while also maintaining their fitness.

22. How do digital nomads save money for their future?

There are many different ways that digital nomads can save money for their future. Creating a budget and sticking to it is one way. Another way is to invest in savings accounts or mutual funds. Additionally, digital nomads can keep an eye out for discounts and sales, and they can also make sure to use their credit cards responsibly.

23. What is the digital nomad mindset to success?

In order to be a successful digital nomad, you need to have the right mindset. This means being willing to take risks and embracing change, which is a huge part of digital nomadism meaning. It also means being able to work independently and being self-motivated. With the right mindset, you can achieve anything!

24. Why does the world need digital nomads nowadays?

One of the main reasons why the world needs digital nomads is that they can provide a valuable service. In a world where technology is constantly evolving, it is important to have people who are able to keep up with the latest trends and changes. Digital nomads are able to do this by constantly being on the move and networking with other professionals.

25. Is the digital nomad thing just a fad?

That’s a tough question to answer, as it depends on your perspective. Some people might say that the digital nomad lifestyle is just a trend that will eventually fade away. However, others may argue that it’s here to stay, as more and more people are turning to remote work in order to have more flexibility and satisfaction in their lives. At GoVisaFree, we are firm believers that the digital nomad movement is here to stay and that it will only get stronger.

26. What websites are good to use to meet nomads expats any English speakers while traveling abroad?

There are a few websites that are great for finding people to meet up with while traveling abroad. Some of these websites include Couchsurfing, Meetup, and InterNations. All of these websites have directories of members who are looking to meet new people and explore new places. They also have listings for events and activities happening in the area.

27. What are some good places for digital nomads in Portugal after Lisbon and Porto?

Anyone who follows GoVisaFree close knows how big fans we are of Portugal. 🙂 There are a few other great places for digital nomads in Portugal that aren’t as well known as Lisbon and Porto. These places include:

  • Aveiro
  • Cascais
  • Sintra
  • Évora

Each of these places has its own unique charms and offers a great experience for digital nomads.

28. How to choose a good location to stay in short-term rentals?

When looking for a good location to stay in short-term rentals, there are a few things you should keep in mind. What is important to you? Easy access to public transportation? A grocery store nearby? Restaurants and bars? Nightlife? Beaches? Museums? Parks?

Once you know what is important to you, start narrowing down your options by looking at neighborhoods that fit your criteria. Then take a closer look at the individual listings to see if they meet your needs.

Some things to keep in mind when choosing a listing:

  • How close is the listing to public transportation?
  • How close are the nearest restaurants, bars, and other nightlife?
  • Is the listing in a safe neighborhood?
  • How much noise will you be exposed to?
  • Is the listing close to any tourist attractions?
  • How many bedrooms and bathrooms does the listing have?
  • What is the price?
  • What is the cancellation policy?

29. How much money do travel bloggers make?

Some bloggers make a lot of money, while others make only a little. How much money you make as a travel blogger depends on several factors, including how popular your blog is, how much work you put in, and how well you monetize your blog.

One way to make money as a travel blogger is to sell advertising space on your blog. If you have a large audience, companies will be willing to pay you to advertise their products or services. You can also make money by writing sponsored posts or by accepting freebies from tourism boards and other organizations.

In addition to making money from your blog, you can also make money by doing speaking engagements, writing travel guides, or becoming a travel agent. The sky is really the limit when it comes to making money as a travel blogger!

30. What is your most loved digital nomad accessory?

This is a difficult question to answer as everyone’s favorite digital nomad accessory will be different. However, there are a few items that are commonly cited as being essential for those who want to work on the go. A good laptop, reliable internet connection, and comfortable travel gear are all important for any digital nomad. Of course, everyone’s needs will be different, so you should tailor your list of must-haves to fit your own individual lifestyle and work habits.

One item that is often cited as a must-have for digital nomads is a good backpack. A quality backpack can help make your travels more comfortable, and it can also help keep your belongings organized.

31. What are some physical products you wish were made for digital nomads?

There are a few physical products that we wish were made specifically for digital nomads. For example, a portable power bank that could charge multiple devices at once, a foldable laptop stand, and a comfortable yet sturdy travel backpack. These are just a few examples, but we think it would be great if more companies started making products specifically for digital nomads and location-independent professionals.

32. What digital nomad events and meetups are happening in 2022?

There are many digital nomad events and meetups scheduled for 2022. Some of these include the DNX Global Summit in Lisbon, Portugal, the Nomad Cruise, and the Remote Worker Summit. These events offer a great opportunity for digital nomads to connect with each other, learn new skills, and explore new places. If you’re looking to meet other digital nomads and learn more about this lifestyle, be sure to check out these events!

33. If you had 2 hours a day and more hours during the weekend, what skills would you be focusing on in order to become one day a digital nomad?

There are a few skills that you can focus on in order to become a digital nomad. These include learning how to code, becoming proficient in social media marketing, and mastering video editing. If you have more time during the weekends, you can also focus on learning other skills such as web development or graphic design. Ultimately, it is up to you what skills you want to focus on and become proficient in. With the right amount of dedication and practice, you can become a digital nomad in no time!

34. What are your favorite digital nomad spots in Spain or Portugal?

There are plenty of great spots for digital nomads in Spain and Portugal, each with its own unique charms. Here are some of our favorites:

For incredible scenery and stunning architecture, head to Granada or Seville in southern Spain. These cities are full of winding streets and picturesque plazas that are perfect for taking a break from work.

In the north, Barcelona is a great option with its lively culture and Mediterranean atmosphere. Plus, it’s well-connected to the rest of Europe thanks to its airport.

If you’re looking for a more rural setting, Portugal is full of charming villages and stunning coastal towns. Porto is a great starting point, with its historical center and lively nightlife. From there, you can explore the rest of the country at your leisure.

No matter where you decide to go, Spain and Portugal are both great options for digital nomads. With their mix of culture and natural beauty, you’ll be able to get plenty of work done while enjoying scenic surroundings.

35. What’s the best country to register your digital nomad online business in?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best country to register your digital nomad online business in will depend on a variety of factors specific to your individual situation. However, some countries are more conducive to starting and running an online business than others. Here are five of the best countries for digital nomads to start their online business:

  • Estonia
  • Belize
  • Panama
  • The United Arab Emirates
  • Costa Rica

36. What are some of the best destinations for high-income digital nomads?

There are a few destinations that come to mind for high-income digital nomads. First, London is a great city to live in if you want to be surrounded by other ambitious people. It’s also home to many startup companies and has a lively nightlife. Another option is Singapore. The city-state is known for its low tax rates and efficient public transportation. Plus, it has a diverse culture and plenty of things to do. If you’re looking for a tropical destination, Bali is a great choice. The island has a relaxed atmosphere and is home to many digital nomad hubs.

No matter what your interests are, there’s sure to be a city that’s going to satisfy your needs as a high-paid digital nomad.

37. What programming specializations would be suited for digital nomads?

There are a few different programming specializations that would be great for digital nomads. One option is web development, which involves creating and maintaining websites. This specialization would give you the skills you need to create and manage your own website, as well as build websites for others. Another option is mobile development, which focuses on creating apps for mobile devices.

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